Different Types of Nursing Home Abuse

Having additional help to care for your elder loved one is a blessing. They’re able to not only care but console your loved ones when they need it the most. However, there can be a downside to inviting a stranger into the comfort of your family’s lives. Nursing home neglect is more common than you think and comes in many forms.

The DiPasquale Moore team is here to guide you through the different types of abuse elders face and what you should do if you suspect the abuse of your loved one.

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse happens through the unauthorized use of elder individuals’ money, property, or other resources for monetary gain. According to the National Council on Aging, financial exploitation of an elder can cost victims as much as $36.5 billion a year. Some warning signs you should look out for are:

• Unexpected or unexplained withdrawals
• A pattern of missing belongings
• Checks or bank statements to the perpetrator’s home

Physical Abuse

Another common form of abuse against elders is physical abuse. This form of abuse is easier to detect as random bruises, broken bones, and signs of self-treated injuries are usually present on the victim. However, there are other signs to look out for, like discomfort towards specific individuals, lack of socialization, and delayed medical care for injuries.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse amongst elders includes unwarranted touching, forced nudity, and sexual assault or battery. It’s important to note that sexual contact with an older person who cannot give consent is also considered sexual abuse. Some warning signs of sexual abuse are:

• Unexpected panic attacks
• Social or emotional withdrawal
• Unexplained bleeding
• Newly sexually transmitted disease

Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse is defined as inflicting emotional pain or anguish on another. Although most forms of emotional abuse are verbal, like threats, insults, and intimidation, non-verbal abuse also exists. For example, shunning a person or isolating themselves from others may cause mental anguish on a patient. If your loved one appears depressed, has a change in behavior or eating patterns, it may be time to take a deeper dive into your loved one’s situation.

Next Steps

Finding out about the abuse of a loved one can be painful. Although the pain cannot be taken away, justice can be served. If you are interested in seeking financial compensation and legal justice for the harm caused to your loved one, contact the DiPasquale Moore team today. We are ready to take this fight on your behalf.